Agriculture Journal: September 2019

Comparing the performance of a home-made bottle drip to a commercial drip system in the production of lettuce (Lactucasativa L.)

Abstract— A study was conducted in which lettuce (Lactucasativa L.) was grown in a plot at the Faculty of Agriculture at Luyengo Campus of the University of Eswatini to compare three different irrigation methods on the production of marketable heads of lettuce. The performance of lettuce under a commercial drip tape was compared with a home-made bottle drip and a hand watering can as used typically by rural people in the country. The commercial drip had emitters discharging 2 liters per hour and therefore 2 liters per hour was applied with both the home-made bottle drip and the watering can during irrigation. The irrigation frequency was every after two days for all the treatments. The plot sizes were 1.5 m x 4.0 m and there were four replications per treatment. There were eighteen lettuce plants per plot. The lettuce was grown for a period of four weeks and then harvested whole. Yield parameters measured included the plant height (cm), leaf area index (LAI), root length (cm) and the fresh head mass (grams). Significant differences (P < 0.01) between treatments were obtained for fresh lettuce head mass and root length. The commercial drip treatment had largest fresh mass at 226.8 g. It was followed by bottle drip at 184.8 g. The control had the lowest yield at 165.3 g. There were no significant differences between treatments for plant height and leaf area index. It was concluded that the home-made bottle drip irrigation method could be recommended for rural people who cannot afford to buy the commercial drip system for the production of vegetables for household consumption.

Keywords— Lettuce, yield, drip, irrigation, water use efficiency.

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Assessing the availability of community water at Madlangamphisi, a community in the Hhohho region of Eswatini

Abstract— The research was conducted to assess the availability of domestic water and the extent of the problems associated with water scarcity at Madlangamphisi area in the Hhohho district of Eswatini. The research was a descriptive survey. A questionnaire was used to collect both qualitative and quantitative data for the survey. A total of 169 households out of 300 households in the community were randomly selected to participate in the survey. The majority (56.2%) of the households confirmed that there was water scarcity problems in the area as the streams they used for domestic water frequently dried up during the winter months. The study showed that a majority, 51.5% used water from rivers as the main source of domestic water, while 40.2% of the people travelled for more than 1,000 m to fetch water. To cope with water scarcity problems, 43.2% of the households reduced their water consumption level during droughts while 45% practiced rooftop rainwater harvesting. The study concluded that Madlangamphisi community experienced serious water scarcity problems since they relied on unprotected water sources for domestic use. Moreover, they had to travel for more than 200 m to collect water from nearest sources which is considered an indication of water scarcity by the WHO. The study observed that there was a need to introduce a rural water supply scheme in the area to solve the water scarcity problems and that households should treat water for drinking by either boiling or use a disinfectant to eliminate pathogenic organisms in the water.

Keywords— Community, water, rural schemes.

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Extraction and Evaluation of Chitosan Enhanced by Lippia Multiflora Oil Essential on Postharvest of Tomato

Abstract— Influence of chitosan and Lippia multiflora (Lm) essential oil used singly or combined was studied on postharvest tomato. Chitosan with 89.31% of DDA and solubility in acetic acid at 97.15 % was extracted from shrimp exoskeletons. Three concentrations of chitosan extracted (0.25; 0.5 and 1%) containing or not L. multiflora oil were used on Rhizopus stolonifer growth in vitro and in situ condition. In vitro condition, antifungal activity of the chitosan and Lm oil against R. stolonifer was conducted on agar media inoculated with fungal spores. Coating containing 1% chitosan incorporated with Lm efficiently inhibited fungal proliferation at 100% after 10 days. The antifungal effect of two molecules was effective when they were associated. In situ condition tomatos were coated with different solution. Antifungal effect and chemical parameters (pH and titrable acidity) were evaluated. Combination of Lm and 1% chitosan delayed efficiently R. stolonifer radial growth (2.1 mm) compared to uncoated fruit (70.37 mm) after 10 days of storage. Chitosan at 1% with or not Lm significantly reduced weight loss. Though, pH and total acidity (TA) were not influenced by coating solution.

Keywords— Chitosan, Lippia multiflora, essential oil, antifungal, Rhizopus stolonifer, tomato.

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Biogeochemical Aspects of Manganese Content in Ilex Paraguayensis SH from Paraguay by EDXRF and INAA

Abstract— Yerba mate, Ilex paraguayensis, is a plant of Paraguayan origin used in infusions/macerations by the ancient inhabitants of Paraguay as a “reviver”/energy beverage and mineral supplier which consumption is lasting up today; furthermore, it is extended almost worldwide. It has been recognized in Ilex paraguayensis, diuretic, CNS stimulant, hypocholesterolemic, hepatoprotective as well as other pharmacological properties. In regard to its elemental content few studies are known despite they play fundamental tasks in the structure and functioning of plants. One of them, Mn, usually occurs as a trace in Ilex paraguayensis, at relatively high concentration and in this work its concentration in plants from Paraguay have been investigated by EDXRF at Josef Stefan Institute at Ljubljana and at University of Asunción using radioactive isotopic sources and by INAA technique in the Faculty of Chemistry at Asunción with an Am-Be neutron source. These plants are grown mainly in two regions, north and south of Eastern Paraguay; results show that their manganese content can be used as a geochemical indicator to identify the region of origin. Besides, as in other plants, absorption, transport and homeostasis of Mn could be attributed to the action of different NRAMPs. In regard to its normal high content in healthy yerba plants, Mn in excess could be hidden in nodes and vacuoles being exported afterwards.

Keywords— Ilex paraguayensis, Eastern Paraguay, yerba mate, Mn content, NRAMP, transporter.

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Decitabine Self Monitoring in Unstable Methylation of DNMT Patients: A Quasi Systematic Review

Abstract—

Background: Grey zone or intermediate zone CGG repeat in Pre-mutation FMR1 gene become in high prevalence in tropical rainforest area.

Problem: Bipolar disorder and Major depressive disorder used epigenetic drugs inhibitor to ameliorating their mood as well anticancer agent, decitabine are broadly used. Meanwhile, basic knowledge remains largely unknown.

Objective: Demethylation effect in grey zone methylation instability has to be controlled whereas up till now are to be disturbing the social behavior activities.

Hypothesis: Demethylation drive through, from >34 to <26 CGG repeat has behavior abnormalities.

Method: Quasi-Systematic Review with Bayesian network analysis using Science Direct and Ebsco-host search engine.

Result: One PRISMA Systematic Review flowchart to got the references and one table of 16 references to answer the methylation and demethylation in global living related to decitabine are recorded.

Discussion: Decitabine effect in epigenetic memory in mammals and neuro developmental, cognitive, behavioral and physical changes in grey zone and carrier permutation FMR1 gene are scanned.

Conclusion: Demethylation to high as well low grey zone CGG count could be self monitor due to instable methylation.

Keywords: decitabine, hypomethylation, CGG repeat, tremor, cognitive, epigenetic instability.

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Disease in Plant and Animal: Similarities and Differences

Abstract— According to current human opinion and knowledge living organisms can be divided into seven kingdoms. The similarities and differences between these seven groups also the relationships between them are very interesting. These relationships lead to creation the different kinds of biological terms such as, mutualism, commensalism and parasitism. So plants and animal also microorganisms have to fight sometimes. The mechanisms of pathogenicity and the mechanisms of defense can be either similar or different. Emphasizing aspect of pathogenicity of some microorganisms, such as Salmonella, Fusarium and Tobacco mosaic virus can case to disease in plants and animals.

Keywords— Animal diseases, Defense system, Plant diseases, Pathogenicity.

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The Effect of Mulching on Soil Moisture Retention and Yield of Lettuce (Lactuca Sativa L.)

Abstract— An experiment was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of different mulching materials on soil moisture retention and yield of lettuce at the greenhouse located at Luyengo campus of the University of Eswatini during the months of January and February, 2019. The treatments consisted of grass mulch (GM), Plastic mulch (PM), leaf debris mulch (LM), and no mulch (NM) which was used as a control. Each of the treatments had four replications. The organic mulch was applied at a thickness of 10 cm, and the plots for experiments were randomly selected. Each plant received 600 cm³ of water every 3 days using a homemade drip irrigation system (equivalent to 6 mm per irrigation circle). Data on soil moisture content was collected using the gravimetric method every 3 days (before irrigation).The growth parameters of the lettuce plants that were collected weekly were plant height, leaf number and leaf area. Both wet weight and dry weight yield were determined for each plot at the end of the experiment (six weeks after planting). Data collected was coded and entered into SPSS computer software. Data analysis was conducted using the analysis of variance (ANOVA) and the least significance difference (LSD) test to determine if means were significantly different. The results showed that GM treatment had high mean moisture retention at 9.3%. It was followed by PM and LM at 8.9%. The lowest moisture retention was realized from the control (No mulching) at 7.9%.The differences in mean moisture retention was significant between NM and NM (p<0.05). The same pattern was observed for the growth parameters, where GN had highest values and the control had the lowest values. The wet mass yield was highest for GM, at 164.7 g. The yield from LM was 149.3 g. It was followed by PM at 141.3 g. The lowest yield was obtained from the control at 108 g. The difference in mean yields for GM and NM were significant (p<0.05). They were not significantly different for all the other treatments (p>0.050. It was concluded from the experiment that grass mulching resulted in improved moisture retention and high yields.

Keywords—Drippers, irrigation, moisture, mulching, yield.

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Agriculture Journal: August 2019

Analysis of Ecosystem Services in the Oaxacan Mixtec Region, (Tiltepec Watershed)

Abstract—The present work analyzes the sources of supply and regulation of ecosystem services (ES) in the Tiltepec watershed, Oaxaca, Mexico, specifically the production of fuelwood, water for human consumption, forage for domestic livestock, as well as regulation for runoff and sediments estimated with the MUSLE model (Modified Universal Soil Loss Equation), Random sampling points were defined according to the soil used and coverage, to determine production of fuelwood and forage. Firewood was evaluated in quadrants of 10 x 10 m for tree strata and 5 x 5 m for shrub strata. Forage production was determined with lines of 20 m and quadrants of 0.25 x 0.25 m to determine biomass and vegetation cover. Water supply was estimated with inflows from springs and the storage capacity of infrastructure works and water demand estimated with the current population and the maximum daily and hourly consumption. The estimated average fuelwood consumption was 1.4 kg person^-1 day^-1for a total volume of 3,189.5 m³. The estimated average forage yield was 856.6 kg ha^-1 and a grazing coefficient of 13.9 ha animal unit (AU^-1), with a census of 171.7 AU. The springs produce a daily volume of 150.4 m³ and the storage water capacity is 184.7 m³ for human consumption and 718.5 m³ for irrigation and recreational uses. With the MUSLE model, a reduction in runoff of 33.93% and 62.93% in specific degradation was estimated comparing the current scenario with that of 1984. The presence of ES in the Tiltepec watershed is essential to provide well-being to local people and regulation of erosion process through works, soil and water conservation practices. These will enable better provision of goods and services.

Keywords— provision and regulation services, water, forage, firewood and sediments.

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Germination Capacity in Culture Medium of Prosopis Laevigata Seeds in the Presence of Copper Sulphate

Abstract—Copper is a heavy metal that has been used as an anti-fungal agent in various crops, this is why it accumulates in certain agricultural lands at levels that become toxic to plants, as well as to microflora. Cooper, although essential to plants, is toxic when found in high concentrations. The objective of this study was to determine if this element is capable of stimulating and at the same time inhibiting germination of seeds of Prosopislaevigata (mesquite) depending on concentration of CuS0₄.5H₂0 solutions. A completely randomized experimental design with seven treatments and three repetitions was used to determine tolerance of mesquite seeds to copper. The variables evaluated were percentage of daily germination (PDG-A, PDG-B, and PDG-C), accumulative germination (AG-A, AG-B, and AG-C), average germination time (AGT), germination rate (GR) and anhydrous weight (AW) of mesquite seeds. The culture media supplied with concentration of 10^-4 M of copper sulfate (CuS0₄.5H₂0), corresponding to treatment four (T₄) showed significant differences (p≤0.05) in variable percentage of daily germination at 48 hours (PDG-B), which presented a germination of 66.7% in relation to treatment two (T₂) with a concentration of 10^-2 M of CuS0₄.5H₂0 and germination of 22.2%. Results obtained after 72 hours for percentage daily germination variable (PDG-C) with^>p^<0.1 showed that mesquite is a species that can tolerate and adapt in germination stage for culture medium with concentrations from 10^-2 to 10^-7M of CuS0₄.5H₂0, and consequently use of seedlings for phytoremediation of sites contaminated with copper.

Keywords— heavy metal, pesticide, germination percentage, average germination time, and culture medium.

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Rainy seasonal analysis of Physico-chemical parameters of Mukungwa River at NGARU point

Abstract— Water availability and quality are important factors that determine not only where people can live, but also the quality of life. The Mukungwa river is affected by rainy season especially at Ngaru point before discharge in Nyabarongo river, where its physico – chemical properties are seasonally changed. This may cause serious problems on all forms of life in the river. Objective of this work was to assess the impacts of rainy season on physico-chemical properties of Mukugwa River before discharging into Nyabarongo River at Ngaru. The parameters such as pH, temperature, turbidity, electric conductivity, total dissolved solids (TSS), phosphates, nitrates, and ammonium were monitored in three rainy seasons: April, 2012; October, 2012 and May, 2017 respectively. In this research, pH, temperature, electric conductivity were analyzed in situ using multifunction pH-meter and others parameters, were analyzed in laboratory using electrometric, volumetric, turbidity tube and colorimetric methods. The measured values for each parameter in three seasons were analyzed using MS Excel, and then compared to their international standards for surface water delivered by World Health Organization (WHO). The findings showed high variation of TSS (134mg/l, 178mg/l, and 582mg/l), turbidity (322NTU, 317NTU and 1560NTU) and ammonium (0.498mg/L, 0.536mg/L and 0.78mg/L) in three rainy seasons assessed. The quality of Mukungwa River needs prevention measures in order to control its pollution by erosion.

Keywords— physico-chemical parameters, seasonal analysis, water quality, water pollution.

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Agriculture Journal: July 2019

Effect of Cutting Frequency on Forage Growth and Yield in Elephant Grass in the Southern Rainforest of Nigeria

Abstract— Pot experiment was conducted at Ndele, Rivers state, southern rainforest of Nigeria to determine the effect of cutting frequency on forage growth and yield in elephant grass, Pennisetum purpureum. The study was a single factor experiment of cutting intervals (5 days; 10 days; 15 days and 20 days) replicated 3 times, arranged in a randomized complete block design using replicates as blocks. Data collected were plant height, number of leaves, leaf area, forage fresh weight and dry weight. Results showed that cutting frequency significantly influenced plant height or growth rate, leaf area and number of leaves. Leaf area and number of leaves reduced with higher frequency or shorter interval of cutting. Grasses cut at 20 days interval recorded the greatest number of leaves and highest leaf area. Cutting frequency markedly affected forage fresh weight and dry matter production (dry weight) and there was noticeable forage yield reduction in grasses cut at 5 days interval (higher frequency) with progressive cuttings as against those cut at 20 days interval (low frequency). Grasses cut at 20 days interval recorded the highest growth and leaf production, the most forage fresh weight and dry matter yield. 20 days interval is hereby recommended for cutting Pennistum purpureum cutting or gracing in southern rainforest of Nigeria.

Keywords— Cutting interval, forage production, Pennisetum purpureum, southern rainforest, Nigeria.

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Effects of Paclobutrazol on fruit yield and physico-chemical characteristics of mango Cvs. Dashehari, Langra, Chausa and Fazri

Abstract— Paclobutrazol is triazoles derivatives [(2 RS, 3RS)-1-(4-Chloropheny)-4, 4-dimethyl-2- (1, 2, 4 triazole-1-yl)] Pentane - 3 - ethanol. It is taken up of xylem and translocated acropetally to sub apical meristem. Paclobutrazol is metabolized in plant in 10-15 days but persists in soil generally for more than one year Pactbutrazol was applied on a basic trunk drench (1.0 g/m, 0.5 g/m tree canopy diameter) in 21-22 year old mango tree Paclobutrazol treatment induced early ripening, reduced fruit sized when applied continuously for more than one year. However that quality was better in terms of higher TSS, total sugar, and β-carotene and Ascorbic aid.

Keywords— Paclobutrazol (PBZ), Auxins (IAA), Gibbcrellins, Cytokinins and Plant growth regulator.

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Carbon stock of woody species along Altitude gradient in Alemsaga Forest, South Gondar, North Western Ethiopia

Abstract—

Purpose: Forest ecosystems play a significant role in the climate change mitigation and biodiversity conservation. Therefore carbon determination provide clear indications of the possibilities of promoting forest development and management for mitigating of climate change through soil and vegetation carbon sequestration. The study was carried out to quantify carbon stock potential in Alemsaga Forest, South Gondar zone.

Research method: Vegetation data Collection was made using a systematic sampling method; laying six transect lines with 500 m apart and 54 quadrants of 20 m X 20 m established 200 m distant to each other along the transect lines. In these plots, abundance, DBH and heights of all woody species were recorded, and soil sample was collected 1m X1m from the four corners and center of each quadrant. General allometric model was used for estimating above and belowground biomass. The organic carbon content of the soil samples was determined in the laboratory.

Finding: A total of 66 woody plant species belong to 42 families were identified, Fabaceae was the most dominant families. The total mean above and belowground carbon stock was 216.86 ton/ha and 114.71 ton/ha respectively and soil organic carbon (SOC) 103.15 ton/ha. Above and belowground carbon increased as altitude decreased, but SOC increases with increase of altitude.

Originality/value: Carbon stock estimation in the forest helps to manage the forests sustainably from the ecological, economic and environmental points of view and opportunities for economic benefit through carbon trading to farmers.

Key word: Altitude, Carbon stock, Forest, Woody species.

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Agriculture Journal: June 2019

Management of Noorda blitealis Wlk. on Moringa oleifera Lam. using biorationals in the home gardens of Jaffna district, Sri Lanka

Abstract— Moringa oleifera Lam. (Moringaceae) is one of the main crops grown for pods and leaves in Jaffna home gardens in Sri Lanka. After the introduction of Periyakulam 1 (PKM 1) Moringa, a leaf eating caterpillar (Noorda blitealis Wlk.) turned out to be a serious pest causing damage to the leaves. Considering the severity of the damage, this study was carried out to find out the suitable biorationals to manage the pest in an eco-friendly method. Using the leaf disc dipping method biorationals such as 1% neem oil, 3% neem seed kernel extract and 2.5g/L neem leaf extract were used to determine the larval mortality. Consumption of the treated leaf area was measured to determine the larval antifeedant activity for 1% neem oil, 3% neem seed kernel extract, (2.5g/L) neem leaf extract, 15% (g/mL) garlic extract and 75% fermented cow urine and ash solution. Distilled water was used as control in both experiments. The experiments were carried out at a temperature of 28.9 ± 1.13°C and 73% relative humidity in complete randomized design. On the 6^th day after treatment larval mortality in 1% neem oil, 3% neem seed kernel extract and 2.5g/L neem leaf extract were 85%, 83.33% and 70% respectively. After 24 hours larvae fed with 1% neem oil, 3% neem seed kernel extract, (2.5g/L) neem leaf extract, 15% (g/mL) garlic extract and 75% fermented cow urine and ash solution showed a larval antifeedant activity of 85.51%, 84.84%, 74.18%, 76.13% and 48.16% respectively.

Keywords— Moringa oleifera, Noorda blitealis, Biorationals, Home garden.

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Viability, method and device for horticultural crops with brackish and marine water

Abstract— The method that humanity has adopted to hydrate and thus give life to the plants, imitating the model that was most visible, is the rain. However, the great secret to the contribution of nutrients to the vegetables, the irrigation itself, is on earth, in the groundwater layers and aquifers that hoard and administer the water, keeping every drop of rain and distributing the water through the basins, underground rivers, watering indirectly from the mountain to the sea. The key is in the different circulation velocities of the groundwater because of the nature of the substrates. However, agriculture has taken irrigation from above as we know it and has focused especially on drainage capacity. From this point of view, saline water is not beneficial for irrigated agriculture, but may be the only source of irrigation water in large arid regions, especially in developing countries, where the extreme scarcity of freshwater and the rapidly growing population require more water.

When considering the possibility of watering with seawater without desalinating, always by means of capillarity systems, it is essential to take into consideration the different strata of soils, the distance to the groundwater, the composition of seawater, the capacity of drainage, chemical reactions of the soil with salts, etc. The modification of any of these parameters can produce effects of salinization, loss of humidity or desertification among others.

This study presents the accumulated experience through the joint collaboration between the Centre for Research in Security and food Control of the Polytechnic University of Catalonia (CRESCA) and the Aqua Maris Foundation in capillary irrigation and it proposes a system and device that allows the controlled development of different vegetal species using brackish and seawater.

Keywords— desertification, desalination, reuse, underground stream seawater.

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Spotting the sensory preferences of artichokes to improve the consumption of this functional food

Abstract - Given the greater varietal supply of the globe artichoke and evaluating its use for human consumption, it is important to carry out market positioning work, including the recognition of the newly available cultivars. Sensory analysis comes up as an important instrument to assess the potential of insertion of artichoke into the market. Within this perspective, the aim of the present study was to determine the sensorial quality characteristics of three globe artichoke cultivars produced in the Rosario´s Horticultural Belt and associated with the preference of consumers. The cultivars were Opal, Madrigal and Romanesco. For sensory evaluation, the method called CATA (Check All That Apply) was used. The results of the CATA test were analyzed using multivariate statistics, applying the Correspondence Analysis. The most distinguishing elements between artichokes were the color and aroma. When associating these results with which was the artichoke that consumers liked the most, it was observed that the Romanesco obtained the best rating. Consumers preferred sweet and tender artichokes. This information could guide the production strategies of the horticulturists to offer cultivars that meet these characteristics.

Key words: artichoques, sensory analysis, CATA.

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Hepatitis A virus and environmental quality indicators in aquatic ecosystems for oyster farming in the Northeast of the State of Pará, Brazil

Abstract - Research into the occurrence of microbiological contaminants, including hepatitis A virus (HAV), in river waters intended for oyster farming is of extreme importance for public health. This study aimed to detect the occurrence of HAV in the aquatic environment for ostreiculture in northeastern Pará, Brazil, and correlate with microbiological, physico-chemical and climatological variables. The HAV research was based on the method of water concentration by filtration membrane adsorption-elution and in the organic flocculation method with skim milk, followed by Nested-PCR. Quantification of coliforms, Enterococci and heterotrophic bacteria was performed. The physico-chemical variables were measured with multiparametric probe and spectrophotometry. Positive samples were purified and submitted to sequencing. From March 2017 to December 2018, 203 samples of river water were collected and analyzed in the municipalities of Augusto Corrêa, Curuçá, Salinópolis and São Caetano de Odivelas. In 10.8% of the analyzed samples the HAV RNA was detected, in all localities the HAV was classified in genotype IB. There was no significant difference between the concentration methods of the water samples. The only physicochemical variable that most influenced HAV detection was dissolved oxygen. Regarding the bacterial indicators, the highest statistical significance occurred with thermotolerant coliforms and Escherichia coli. The detection of HAV in the four municipalities studied shows that the virus is circulating in the aquatic environment and, therefore, in the community. In this context, more effective hygienic-sanitary measures are necessary in these communities dedicated to oyster farming.

Keywords— Hepatitis A Virus, Quality Indicators, Water and Ostreiculture.

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Agriculture Journal: April 2019

Production of barbatimão (Stryphnodendron adstringens) seedlings of increasing doses of domestic sewage effluent

Abstract— The barbatimão is a traditional plant species of Brazilian cerrado. Barbatimão bark is widely used in the production of medicines and cosmetics. Because it is an extractive exploitation plant, the activity can be considered aggressive for plants that after having their shells removed may die. Another point to consider is the lack of a fertilization protocol. Aiming to improve the nutrition of barbatimão seedlings through the use of effluent of domestic exhaustion. This work had as objective to study the production of barbatimão seedlings in function of crescents doses of domestic exhaustion. The experiment was conducted in a randomized block design with 5 treatments and 10 replications. The seedlings were grown in plastic bags of 7.5 liters filled with substrates based on pinus bark. The biometric evaluations were initiated 30 days after transplanting when the plants were already established in the new container and consisted of: height of the plants (measured by means of millimeter ruler) being considered with initial point of the region of the collection until the apex of the seedling; diameter of the stem (measured by means of digital caliper) and number of leaves counted from the base to the apex of the plant, being considered as leaf the petiole of the composite leaf inserted in the branches of the plant. In general, it was concluded that barbatimão seedlings were negatively influenced by the addition of domestic effluent from household wastewater. However, studies with lower dosages than those tested in this study are suggested.

Keywords—biomass, Agricultural production, nutritional management.

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The Role of Salicylic Acid, Jasmonic Acid and Ethylene in Plant Defense

Abstract— A complex network of cross – talk between the salicylic acid (SA) and jasmonic acid (JA) pathways further fine tunes plant defense responses. SA can be formed from cinnamate via o – coumarate or benzoate depending on whether the hydroxylation of the aromatic ring takes place before or after the chain – shortening reactions. SA not only functions against biotrophs, but also activates plant resistance against the below – ground disease such as root – knot nematodes. The synthesis of jasmonates and many other oxylipins is initiated by lipoxygenases (LOXs), which catalyze the regio – and stereoselective dioxygenation of polyunsaturated fatty acids. JA activates plant immune responses to necrotrophic pathogens, some phloem – feeding insects and chewing herbivores. Also JA is also involved in other aspects of plant – pathogen interactions, including systemic acquired resistance (SAR). The role of ethylene (ET) in plant diseases resistance is dramatically different duo to type of pathogene and plant species. There are many evidence that show ethylene response is linked to gene for gene resistance. It is proven that there are a strong connection between different pathways related to SA, JA and ET for plant diseases resistance. So that SA – dependent and JA/ethylene – dependent pathwa ys induce expression of different sets of PR genes and result in plant resistance to different pathogens.

Keywords— Jasmonic acid, Plant Resistance, Salicylic acid.

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Different land use systems improve soil fertility status of sandy soil and increase the yield of rice under rain-fed wet lowland tropical climatic conditions in Papua New Guinea

Abstract— The pratical use of different land use systems(LUS) as a management strategy and the effect of the LUSon soil proprties as an indicator of soil fertility status, and the understanding of the long-term effect of the LUS, are important to maintaining optimal soil fertility and yeild of crops. In the rain-fed wet lowlandtropical soils, studies related to rice production and the associated effectson soil properties are limited to a few studies. In this study, we investigated the effects of four LUS (crop rotation, continuous cropping, manure application and fallow) on soil properties that influence soil fertility status and yield of crops under a rain-fed wet lowland tropical sandy soil conditions.The data were compared with the natural soil data obtained prior to and at the end of the study. All the LUS had no to small effects on bulk density, moisture content, electrical conductivity and pH.Soil organic carbon, total nitrogen, available phosphorus, extractable potassium, and cation exchange capacity were all higher in all the LUS.Crop rotation increased soil organic carbon and cation exchange capacity, fallow increased total nitrogen, and manure application increased available phosphorus and extractable potassium contents, respectively.The LUS had no significant effects on particle composition except that small increases in the silt contentswere observed in the continuous, rotation and fallow systems. In almost all cases, soil organic carbon content influenced the fertility status of the sandy soil and yield of rice. Higher soil organic carbon contentresulted in higher available phosphorous and extarvale potassium,enhence reulted in higher yield of rice but decreased the total nitrogen content.Our results implied that the soil organic carbon content of sandy soils needs to be managed properly for optimal soil fertility and higher yieid.

Keywords— land use systems, soil fertility, yield of rice, rain-fed, sandy soil.

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Study on financial management problems and countermeasures of public hospitals under the new reformation of the medical treatment

Abstract— The reform of financial management is the top task of the new health care reform in public hospitals, and is the cornerstone that new health care reform has succeeded. This paper clarifies two basic concepts which are "New medical reform" and "Financial management of public hospitals", and on this basis, it analyzes and studies the financial management of public hospitals, and puts forward some improvement measures, such as strengthening the construction of administrative management system and improving the mode of decision-making management; building a team of high quality financial management and deepening the comprehensive budget management; perfecting cost management and control system, standardizing medical service behavior, and strengthening the management of state-owned assets; establishing and improving the financial supervision and control mechanism of public hospitals; establishing the finance risk warning, prevention and management system of hospital.

Keywords— new health care reform, public hospital, financial management, improvement measures.

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Preliminary Study on Investigation of Turf Fungi Disease in Hailing District, Taizhou City, Jiangsu Province China

Abstract— In order to find out the disease of turf fungi and the damage of the disease to the lawn in Hailing District of Taizhou, this paper investigates fungal diseases of lawn and grassland, such as Festuca arundinacea, Cynodon dactylon, Zoysia matrella, Lolium perenne, Trifolium repens, in major parks and urban green spaces in Hailing District of Taizhou City. Then this paper separated and identified pathogenic fungi, mainly there are Alternaria alternate, Bipolaris sorokinianum, Drechslaris poae and Curvularia lunata, etc (8 kinds in all), and then basically defined the species, distributions and damage of turfgrass fungal diseases in Hailing District, Taizhou. In the meantime, this paper put forward specific proposals for the prevention and control of lawn diseases.

Keywords— Taizhou city, turfgrass, fungal diseases, control.

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Agriculture Journal: March 2019

Application of Citrus Bioadsorbents as Wine Clarifiers

Abstract— In recent years, reuse and recycling has taken on an increasingly important role in our society. As a result, there has been an increase in research and development of sustainable technologies. The experience acquired by the CRESCA team in the study of the revaluation of orange peels and lemon have allowed him to have a vision of this by-product as a raw material that, with the opportune treatments, can be origin of products of high added value. In this sense, very satisfactory results have been achieved for different fields of application such as:

1. Agricultural: As water adsorbents, obtaining better results than conventional products (silica gel).
2. Wine: As an alternative wine clarifier to products currently used (gelatin, potato protein, egg albumin, etc.)
3. Treatment of wastewater with high metallic load: As heavy metal adsorbents (Ni, Cu, Pb, etc.)
4. Wastewater Treatment of textile industry: as adsorbent of organic dyes.

This paper proposes the use of orange peel and lemon, after being subjected to a process physicochemical, as clarifiers of wine and compared the results with those obtained with vegetable protein, gelatin and bentonite.

Keywords— absorption, lemon, orange.

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Modeling of Soil Organic Carbon Concentration and Stability Variation in Top and Deep Soils with varied Aggregate Size under Climate Change of Sub-tropical India: A Review

Abstract— The effects of tillage on soil organic carbon (SOC) and nutrient content of soil aggregates can vary spatially and temporally, and for different soil types and cropping systems. Surface soil (0–15 cm) was fractionated into aggregate sizes (>4.76 mm, 4.76–2.00 mm, 2.00–1.00 mm, 1.00–0.25 mm, 0.25–0.053 mm, <0.053 mm) under two tillage regimes. The percentage of soil OC mineralized (SOC_min, % SOC) was in general higher in larger aggregates than in smaller aggregates. Tillage significantly reduced the proportion of macro-aggregate fractions (>2.00 mm) and thus aggregate stability was reduced by 35% compared with RNT, indicating that tillage practices led to soil structural change for this subtropical soil. Soil organic C decreased with increasing soil depth but was greater under tree than others and was mainly concentrated in the topsoil layer (0–20 cm). In comparison to topsoil, deep soil aggregates generally exhibited a lower C_min, and higher SOC_min. The highest SOC was in the 1.00–0.25 mm fraction, while the lowest SOC was in micro-aggregate (<0.025 mm) and silt + clay (<0.053 mm) fractions and CT, respectively. Tillage did not influence the patterns in SOC across aggregates but did change the aggregate-size distribution, indicating that tillage affected soil fertility primarily by changing soil structure. The percentage of soil OC mineralized (SOC_min, % SOC) was in general higher in larger aggregates than in smaller aggregates. Meanwhile, SOC_min was greater in coniferous forests (CF) than in broad-leaved forests (BF) at topsoil and deep soil aggregates. In comparison to topsoil, deep soil aggregates generally exhibited a lower C_min, and higher SOC_min. The sum of macro-aggregate contributing rates for clay-humus stability of soil organic C (SOC) was significantly superior to that of the micro-aggregates. Water-stable aggregates increased by 34.5% in the CA with residue retention treatment, effectively improving the soil structure. Furthermore, 0.25–1.00 and 1–2mm aggregates had the highest SOC microbial biomass storage and responded rapidly to the various tillage treatments. Greater proportion of micro-aggregates within macro-aggregates in the plots under NT–NT compared with CT–CT was also observed in the surface layer only. Plots under NT–NT had about 10% higher coarse (250–2000 μm) intra-aggregate particulate organic matter-C (iPOM–C) within >2000 μm sand free aggregates in the 0- to 5-cm soil layer compared with CT–CT plots. The fine (53–250 μm) iPOM–C within the 250- to 2000-μm aggregates was also higher in the continuous NT plots compared with CT within both >2000 and 250 to 2000 μm sand free aggregate size classes in that soil layer.

Keywords— Aggregates sizes, aggregate stability, soil depth, macro-aggregates, micro-aggregates, fractionation, particulate organic carbon.

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Genotypic differences of soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill) as a factor of biological intensification of agroecosystems

Abstract— Unfavorable environmental conditions limit the continued yield increases of modern commercial cultivars and hybrids of agricultural plants in the intensive agroecosystems. Therefore, the genotypic differences in resistance/tolerance to biotic and abiotic stresses and the yield of soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill) are the focus of our long-term studies (2010 – 2018). The soybean breeding lines, collection varieties and commercial cultivars are investigated. The pathogens of viral diseases, namely, the Soybean mosaic virus (SMV) and the Alfalfa mosaic virus (AMV) have been identified. The soybean genotypes having one of such dominant genes as Rsv1, Rsv1t or Rsv1y (locus Rsv1) proved to be resistant to local strains of SMV. The genotypes with a relatively high level of the yield and resistance to viral diseases and downy mildew (Peronospora manshurica (Naum.) Syd.) are detected. Artificial selection of soybean genotypes for cold tolerance during the seed germination and seedling development period should be carried out taking into account the effect of early planting onto yield components and other plant morphological traits. Soybean yields, as a result of genotype-environment interactions, and the addressed introduction of commercial cultivars into specific agroecosystems are discussed. Selected genotypes can be used in agronomic practice and also as germplasm in breeding of the new high-yielding soybean cultivars with a good adaptability to soil and climatic conditions of Ukraine.

Keywords— addressed cultivars, cold tolerance, downy mildew, soybean viruses, yields.

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The Cation Exchange Capacity, pH of Soil in Mwogo Marshland, and the Rice Plantation in Huye District -Rwanda

Abstract— Agriculture is a major component of Rwanda’s national economy. In 2017, agriculture contributed 33% to the country’s GDP. About 66.46 % of population, of which 50.9 % are women, depends either directly or indirectly on agriculture for living. The average arable surface area available is about 0.60 ha per household use. This causes overexploitation of available land which is often accompanied by agricultural malpractices with disastrous consequences on land resources and on environment in general. Given the limited availability of arable land for agriculture and the constantly growing food requirements of the population, ensuring food security poses a major challenge. This present study aimed at investigating the cation exchange capacity and pH of soil of Mwogo Marshaland in order to resolving the problem of soil fertility of Mwogo marshland by looking the method for increasing its fertility and then the problem of low rice production. By using soil Auger, samples were taken randomly in the field where each sample of soil was used in laboratory to determine both pH and Cation Exchange Capacity, in each blocks namely Block du Nord and Block du Sud. During this study the laboratory results and laboratory analysis has shown that marshland soil is very acidity with pHkcl is 4.37, Ph water with a weak cation exchange capacity. These findings support the previous studies showing that the soils with those properties need particular management; like liming, addition of organic matter, and so on, in order to adjust its chemical properties.

Keywords— Soil, chemical properties, rice production.

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Forage plants in Daloa city livestock market: specific diversity, market practices and economic land

Abstract— The sale of forage is little known to the majority of people in Côte d'Ivoire. The target of the study is to identify the forage species marketed in the livestock markets of Daloa and to estimate the financial profitability of this activity in the socio-economic life of the actors of the sector. Semi-structured surveys were conducted from September to December 2018 among 45 vendors in the forage marketing chain. Nine forage species divided into five genera and four families were identified. The study showed that these plants come from the non-agglomerated areas of the city, fallows and old plantations. The main species are f forage Moraceae, especially Ficus exasperata, highly sought after by customers. The average selling price of a forage species boot is around 100 to 150 FCFA. The estimated average daily financial income per player is FCFA 750 and varies between 18,750 to FCFA 37,500 per month for a monthly average of FCFA 26,125 and oscillate between 225,000 to FCFA 450,000 for an annual average of 313,500 FCFA. However, although the harvesting and sale of forage trees is a pathway generating substantial income, it is a source of degradation of plant formations already overexploited in Côte d'Ivoire.

Keywords— Forage plants, livestock markets, financial income, actors, Daloa, Côte d'Ivoire.

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Agriculture Journal: February 2019

Influence of silicon, nitrogen and molybdenum doses on the production of bean pods

Abstract— The snap beans is greatly appreciated and consumed by Brazilians, and the snap beans commercial seeds are divided into indeterminate growth habit and determined. Farmers most often plant indeterminate growth habit bean-pod, so the fertilizer recommendations are for this habit. Due to the availability of determinate growth habit cultivars, it is necessary to study the nutrition area, because they have the shortest cycle, flowering and pod production in concentrated period, smaller spacing and planting densities with greater influence in the population by ha. The study aimed to evaluate the snap bean growth given in the search response with increased productivity positively due to the use of silicon as well as the rational use of Nitrogen and Molybdenum. The experiment was design on track and installed with subplots and two replications, using treatments with and without foliar application of 5% of eucalyptus ash, four nitrogen doses 0, 50, 100 and 150 kg N / ha and four molybdenum doses in foliar application 0, 30, 60 and 90 g Mo / ha. Nitrogen and molybdenum treatments responded with a yield and quality increase, allowing adjusting of quadratic equations regression and to recommend if the farmer does not use molybdenum, the nitrogen dose of 79.2 kg in coverage application. For molybdenum and nitrogen, according to the results obtained, the doses of 35g Mo / ha and 130 kg N / ha in coverage are recommended in coverage application. The silicon, applied through eucalyptus ash, did not respond in production.

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Physico-chemical Analysis of the MEHDIA Estuary (GHARB –MOROCCO)

Abstract—In Morocco, superficial flows are dependent on rainfall and exhibit high spatial variability. In general, the water resources available to Morocco are limited and subject to extreme cyclical variations. Similarly, the qualitative situation of the waters is far from satisfactory. Indeed, population growth accompanied by rapid urbanization that causes many disturbances to natural environments. Industrialization, the irrational use of fertilizers and pesticides and the lack of awareness of the population towards the protection of the environment, lead as much to an imbalance of the ecosystem and generate polluting elements that can affect the physico-chemical quality biological and aquatic environments, but also alter the uses of water; water collection, swimming ... etc. The sub-basin of OuedSebou drains the Mehdia region and is particularly affected by the problem of continuous development of the agricultural sector. Indeed, the discharges of water-gardens, pesticides and fertilizers drained by rainwater and irrigation and dirt environment, in addition to the domestic discharges generated by the small town Mehdia and the city of Kenitra are dumped directly into the OuedSebou. The present research on the Mehdia region is aimed at the prospection of the hydrobiology of the waters of the Sebouwadi. The study will be based on physicochemical analysis of the mouth of Mehdia and the determination of seasonal fluctuations of these parameters between the low water period and the flood period.

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Impact of Land Fragmentation on Technical Efficiency: The Case of Maize Farmers in the Transitional Zone Of Ghana

Abstract— This paper seeks to study the impact of land fragmentation on technical efficiency of 461 maize farmers selected through the multi-stage sampling technique from the transitional zone of Ghana. The study used the stochastic production frontier model to analysis data from 2017/2018 farming season. The findings showed that, most of the farmers were in their youthful age with few of them over the age of 60 therefore, an average age of 44.8. The study revealed that; quantity of labour used , quantity of seed used, and farm size are the factors that determine the technical efficiency of farmers in the study area since it has a significant relationship with technical efficiency. On the other hand, land fragmentation and distance between farms was identified to be the only significant source of technical inefficiency of maize farmers in the study area. It is suggested that resource allocation and land policies should target the improvement of production efficiency of maize farmers in the study area.

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Agriculture Journal: January 2019

Productive behavior of cultivars and banana genotype originating from 'Prata Anã', Irrigated and non irrigated in the State of Minas Gerais, Brazil

Abstract— The objective of this work was to evaluate the vegetative and productive behavior of banana cultivars Prata Catarina and PrataGorutuba, from clonal selection in cultivars of Prata-Anã and BRS Maravilha and PA 94-01, obtained through crosses of the genotype SH 31-42 with Prat-Anã and Prata Catarina, respectively. The experiment was conducted in Bambuí under drip irrigation and in Iaci, without irrigation. A randomized complete block design with four replications was used for each cultivar and plots with ten plants, spacing 3.0 x 2.8 m (1190 plants / hectare). The vegetative behavior was evaluated through the plant height (m) at the time of the bunch issue and the production cycle, that is, the period between planting and harvesting of the mother, daughter and granddaughter plants. The productive behavior was evaluated by bunch weight (kg) and fruit (g) and number of fruits per bunch and yield (kg / ha / year). The data were submitted to analysis of variance and the means compared by the Tuckey Test at 5% probability. The 'BRS Maravilha' showed the highest height of the plant, both in Bambuí and in Ijaci. The other cultivars did not differ in height. PA 94-01 was earlier in both locations, with a production cycle about one month less than the other cultivars. The cultivar BRS Maravilha and PA 94-01 surpassed the others by weight of the bunch and the fruits, number of fruits per bunch and yield in the two localities, and in Bambuí was significantly higher than in Ijaci, thus showing the expressive effect of irrigation. The PA 94-01, due to its good productivity, fruit size, appearance, taste and precocity can become a better option for the producers compared to the other cultivars.

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Towards Attainment of Sustainable Rural Livelihoods and Poverty Reduction among Rural Farmers: Whither Farm Waste Utilization?

Abstract— The study investigated potential of farm wastes’ utilization for attaining sustainable livelihoods and reducing poverty among rural dwellers in Osun state, Nigeria. Specifically, socioeconomic attributes of the respondents were described and significant determinants of farm waste utilization identified. Primary data were collected using interview schedule collected from 364 respondents sampled for the study through multi stage procedure. Frequency counts, percentages, mean and standard deviation were used to describe data collected. Rational choice theory and theory of planned behaviour were used to provide theoretical underpinning for the study. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to identify significant determinants of farm waste utilization. Result showed that cassava and yam peels, maize stalks and cobs, cowpea husk, palm kernel shell, empty palm fruit bunch, cocoa pods, poultry droppings, sheep and goat faeces were amongst farm wastes with economic potentials in the study area. Result of regression analysis showed that income (t = 2.401), perception about farm waste items (t = 4.458), perceived behavioral control (t = 2.534) and attitude towards farm waste utilization (t = 2.732) positively and significantly contributed to extent of farm waste utilization, while total farm size (t = 1.988) and years spent on formal education (t = 2.024) positively and significantly contributed to extent of farm waste utilization at p ≤ 0.05. However, information sources (t = -2.732) and knowledge about farm waste utilization potentials (t = -2.314) significantly but negatively influenced farm waste utilization p ≤ 0.05, respectively. It was concluded that varieties of farm waste items with good economic potentials for utilization abound in the study area. In order to empower rural dwellers economically thereby enhancing their livelihoods and ameliorating their poverty condition, paying attention to the significant determinants of waste utilization identified is recommended.

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Application of bioflocculant-producing bacteria, heterotrophic nitrogen-removal bacteria, poly-phosphate bacteria and water-hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) for wastewater treatment of My Tho rice-noodle factories, Tien Giang province, Vietnam

Abstract— Rice-noodle wastewater represents a serious problem regarding environmental degradation and human health protection. The aim of the study was to create the application of bioflocculant-producing bacteria, heterotrophic nitrogen-removal bacteria, poly-phosphate bacteria and water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) for wastewater treatment of My Tho rice noodle factories, Tien Giang province, Vietnam in order to get an insight into number of entities that discharge polluted water into environment. An experiment was carried out with containers having different capacities from 100-mL, 1-L, 10-L, 100-L and 1000-L and 3 replications to select best strains of bioflocculant-producing bacteria, heterotrophic nitrogen bacteria, poly-P bacteria and water-hyacinth for removing toxic element to wastewater before releasing to river/canal. Application of two bioflocculant-producing bacterial strains PO.01.C and PRO.03.B (protein and polysaccharide) into rice-noodle wastewater, aeration in 3 hours, held on 21 hours, supernatant moved to other container, adding heterotrophic nitrogen removal bacterial strain and poly-P. strain 064.B, aeration 8 hr/24hr during 7 days and wastewaters were transferred other containers containing water-hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) in 2 days, the results recorded that pH of wastewater increased from 4.68 to 6.13, TSS and BOD₅ concentration of wastewater reduced from 369 and 1200 mg/L to 17 and 23 mg/L, respectively. TKN and TP decreased from 45 and 6.3 mg/L to 7.57 and 4.56 mg/L, respectively. All targets reached to 40/2011 standard / Ministry of Natural Resource and Environment of Vietnam.

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Effect of Compost, NPK and Plant Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR) on Growth and Yield of Three Vegetables cultivated on Arenosols

Abstract — Three field studies were conducted to determine the effects of compost, plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) and NPK on growth and yield of three vegetables. Two PGPR strains (Nitrogen-fixing Bradyrhizobium japonicum and Phosphate-solubilizing Bacillus subtilis) supplemented into compost and bacterial liquid were added into compost during vegetable cultivation, chemical fertilizer (100 N – 80 P₂O₅ – 40 K₂O) and control (non inoculation). The study revealed that compost inoculated with PGPRs can replace 50% chemical fertilizer in three vegetables cultivation, farmers but also saved 50 N – 40 P₂O₅ – 20 K₂O not only minimized environmental pollution.

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Resistance in Plants, Concepts and Mechanisms

Abstract— In contrast to most animals, plants are sessile organisms that they have not a circulatory system. So they have an innate immune system in each cell. In fact interaction between plants and their pathogens is based on systemic signaling capability from infection sites. In plant pathogen interaction sometimes pathogens produce elicitor and sometimes produce effector. On this basis, resistance in plants is divided to host and non host. On the other hand the plant responses depend not only on the recognition mechanisms but also very much on the biology of the interactions and genetic characteristics of plants and their pathogens. Gene – for – gene and the matching allel are two basic models for explanting of genetic basis of interaction between plants and their pathogens.

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Agriculture Journal: December 2018

Physicochemical Characterization of African Aubergine Solanum Aethiopicum Anguivi (Solanaceae) from Northern Cote d’Ivoire

Abstract— Solanum aethiopicum anguivi (Solanaceae) is a common vegetable widely used for food by population in Korhogo, northern Côte d'Ivoire. But this aubergine is not yet soundly utilized. The current study focuses the physico-chemical traits of this aubergine to fit more valorization. From the investigation, the aubergine showed higher moisture (90.73% to 92.71%). Oppositely, lower contents are recorded for crude proteins (1.44% to 1.64%), fats (0.12% to 0.16%), total carbohydrates (5.38% to 6.71%), and so for caloric energy value (28. 36 Kcal/100 g to 34.84 Kcal/100g). Besides, the aubergine is provided with significant fiber content (2.43% to 3.31%) and displayed antioxidants components such as vitamin C (6.25 mg/100 g to 6.74 mg/100g) and polyphenols (55.94 mg/100 g to 66.34 mg/100g). It also presents 0.36% to 0.76% of ash mainly constituted of potassium (4.52% to 5.42% DM), phosphorus (0.82% to 0.97% DM) and other oligoelements as iron (1.42 to 4.81 ppm), manganese (2. 06 to 2.33 ppm), zinc (0.22 to 0.32 ppm), and copper (0.01 to 0.02 ppm). Still, this vegetable records phytate (20.91 to 22.44 mg/100 g) and oxalate (28.69 to 38.83 mg/100 g) as main antinutrients components. Processed before consumption, Solanum aethiopicum anguivi constitutes a significant source of food fibre, natural antioxidant, and mineral elements for local population.

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Fraxinus Angustifolia for Planting in Sardinia (Italy) A Case Study of Innovative Agroforestry System

Abstract— The case study reports about the development of a 18 years old Fraxinus angustifolia Vahl. tree plantation located in a representative test site for climate, soil and land use characters, of the agricultural planes of southern Sardinia, Italy. The favourable results about diameter at breast height (DBH) and other tree variables together with high potentiality for many ecosystem services too can identify this Fraxinus angustifolia tree plantation case study as an innovative agroforestry system.

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Study of Physiochemical and Properties of CNSL based Termiticides

Abstract— Cashew nut shell liquid based termiticides using neem seed oil, karanj seed oil and bhilawan shell liquid, were developed and the effect of formulations on acid value, Iodine value, saponification value and unsaponifiable matter of CNSL termiticides was studied. It was observed that CNSL based termiticides were oil based therefore the acid value, Iodine value, saponification value, unsaponifiable matter, flash point, fire point, refractive index, specific gravity, viscosity and colour properties of CNSL, Neem seed oil, Karanj seed oil and Bhilawan shell liquid were reflected in the termiticide formulations with respect to the temperature.

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Enhancement of β-1,3 Glucanase Production from Penicillium oxalicum T3.3

Abstract— β-1,3 glucanases are semi-constitutive hydrolytic enzymes that can degrade glucan molecules embedded in the cell wall components of cereals and some species of fungi resulted in production of D-glucose. This enzyme has a great potential and interest in biotechnology, agricultural and also industrial field. However, there is little reports on the production of β-1,3 glucanase by Penicillium oxalicum. Therefore, the cultural conditions which stimulate in vitro production of β-1,3 glucanase enzyme by P. oxalicum T3.3 and characterization of β-1,3 glucanase enzyme activity were determined.Various parameters such as different types of carbon and nitrogen sources, initial pH medium, agitation speed and surfactants were investigated. The optimization was carried out by varying and optimizing one variable at a time. The highest production of β-1,3 glucanase activity of 84.73 U/mL was obtained using seaweed Undaria pinnatifida as substrate at concentration of 1% (w/v), peptone and yeast extract as nitrogen source at 0.3% and 0.2% respectively, initial medium pH 5, agitation speed at 200 rpm and with addition of sodium dodecyl sulfate as surfactant. Under these conditions, β-1,3 glucanase activity increased by 38.6%. Enzyme characterization was also performed which indicated that this enzyme is thermostable and showed optimum activity at 50°C, pH 5 and can retained its activity around 80% up to 4 h at this condition.The optimization of β-1,3 glucanase production by P.oxalicum required adjustment of different types of carbon and nitrogen sources, initial pH medium, agitation speed and surfactants. This enzyme characterization has revealed its great potential towards detergent, beer and food fermentation industries whose manufacturing conditions are largely acidic.

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Synergistic Effects of Diazotrophic Phosphate Solubilizing Azotobacter chroococcum and AM Fungus Glomus mosseae on Yield Improvement in Finger Millet (Eleusine Coracana (L.) Gaertn.)

Abstract—Field experiments were conducted to study the response of finger millet Eleusine Coracana (L.) Gaertn. to combined inoculation with the P-solubilizing diazotrophic Azotobacter chroococcum (DT) isolated from the rhizosphere of finger millet and the P-mobilizing Arbuscular Mycorrhizal fungus Glomus mosseae under graded levels of N & P fertilizers (100, 75 and 50 percent).The inoculated seedlings were transplanted to the laid out plots (RCBD) with red sandy loam soil having medium levels of NPK and OC. The combined inoculation resulted in significant increase in yield over all the other treatments with 31.00, 27.99 and 18.10 percent grain yield and 36.69, 33.55 and 15.01 percent straw yield respectively in presence of 100, 75 and 50 percent N and P fertilizers in comparison with uninoculated control indicating efficient N supplementation and P- solubilization by A. chroococcum and P-mobilization by the AM fungus. The results indicated that 25-50 percent of N and P fertilizers can be curtailed in presence of combined inoculants, saving money without decrease in the yield performance of finger millet. The combination of these inoculants can be included as one of the important agronomic inputs in finger millet cultivation both under subsistence and affluent farming systems.

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Agriculture Journal: November 2018

Yield and yield attributes in ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.) somaclones for quality seed production

Abstract— The experiment was taken up to elicit the information on the performance of different ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.) somaclones for yield and quality for quality seed production. Ten somaclones of ginger were evaluated in RBD with three replications during 2015-18 at College of Horticulture, Kerala Agricultural University, Thrissur district, Kerala. The growth performance of ten somaclones indicated significant variation at all the stages of crop growth. Among the somaclones, SE 86102 (16.00 days) and SE 8626 (16.33 days) registered least number of days for sprouting. Among the vegetative characters studied, the maximum plant height (107.38 cm) was recorded by the somaclone SE 86102 which was significantly superior to other somaclones and check varieties. Somaclone CHP 118 recorded maximum number of tillers (20.33), number of leaves per shoot (28.67) and total number of leaves per shoot (117.33). The highest leaf area was recorded by C 8632 with a value of 62.12 cm². Among the rhizome characters recorded, the somaclone CHP 118 gave highest number of primary rhizomes (4.83) which was on par with SE 8626 (4.33) and C 8632 (4.08). The highest number of secondary rhizome was recorded by CHP 118 (10.33) which was on par with SE 8626 (10.06) and C 8632 (10.01). Weight of mother rhizome was the highest in the somaclone SE 8642 (11.00 g) and CHP 118 (10.67 g). Similarly, weight of primary rhizome was highest in SE 8642 (15.73 g), SE 8626 (15.07 g) and CHP 118 (14.80 g). Weight of secondary rhizome was highest in SE 8626 (13.20 g) and SE 8642 (12.33 g). The highest fresh rhizome yield per plant was recorded by somaclone CHP 118 (274.13 g), SE 8626 (266.67 g), C 8632 (259.67 g) and SE 8642 (251.67 g) at full maturity. The highest yield per plot was recorded by somaclone CHP 118 (8.77 kg), SE 86 26 (8.54 kg), C 8632 (8.31 kg) and SE 8642 (8.06 kg). The fresh rhizome yield per hectare was was maximum in CHP 118 (35.08 t), SE 86 26 (34.16 t), C 8632 (33.24 t) and SE 8642 (32.24 t). It is concluded that somaclones were highly variable in their performance, yield and yield attributes. Four somaclones viz., CHP 118, SE 8626, C 8632 and SE 8642 were identified as high yielders from their outstanding performance throughout their growth period with highest yield in CHP 118. This can be due to more number of tillers, leaves per shoot and rhizomes and also weight of primary, secondary and mother rhizomes.

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Investigation of disposal processes by manufacturing companies in Gaborone

Abstract— Industrial processes create variety of solid and liquid wastes; which may contain pollutants that have potential harm to humans, animals and the environment. Hence the challenge for disposal of waste for industries cannot be ignored. In these studies, a survey was conducted in the capital city of Botswana; Gaborone to investigate waste management practices for selected manufacturing companies. The findings indicate that companies disposed waste in different ways; 50% out-sourced waste collection services, while 8.3% disposed to waste treatment plants, 33.3% in sewage lines and the other 8.3% in the open flat land. Only 33.3% uses ponds to deal with its effluent and consequently recycle it. Of the companies surveyed, 33.3% of the companies indicated that they have hazardous wastes. Preliminary investigations on contaminates that find their way into the city’s sewage system shows that, Pb concentrations did not exceed maximum allowable concentrations of 5.0 mg/L, whereas Cd and Cr concentrations exceeded the maximum allowable concentration of 0.01 mg/l and 0.1 mg/l in irrigation water respectively.

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Desalination Property of Various Calcined Layered Double Hydroxides from Seawater

Abstract— Now, approximately 20% of farmland in the world becomes salt damage soil with unsuitable properties for agriculture. In general, salt was removed from soil by flushing out with rain water due to the improvement of soil permeability using gypsum and so on. However, there are arid and semi-arid areas with an insufficient supply amount of rain water to remove salts from soil. In this study, a novel method to capture salt in soil using various calcined layered double hydroxides (LDHs) as a desalination agent was attempted to estimate desalination property from seawater. 4 kinds of LDH with the different M²⁺/M³⁺ ratios are prepared using 2 kinds of Mg²⁺ and Ca²⁺ as M²⁺ and 2 kinds of Al³⁺ and Fe³⁺ as M³⁺. The desalination ability of these calcined LDHs was investigated using seawater. As a result, the decrease of salinity was confirmed using all samples. Among these samples, the calcined Mg-Al LDH with Mg/Al = 3.45 and Ca-Fe LDH with Ca/Fe = 2.35 indicated the highest desalination property, due to the decrease of Cl^- and SO₄^2- from seawater, by reconstruction reaction. Ca-Fe LDH was calcined at various temperatures and the desalination ability at different calcined temperatures was also evaluated. It was found that the desalination ability of calcined LDH depends on the calcination temperatures and Ca-Fe LDH calcined at 500℃ indicated the highest desalination ability.

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Cost effective production of Bacillus thuringiensis aizawai and their application against Spodoptera litura

Abstract— Spodoptera litura (Fabricius) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) was prevalent in many species of aquatic plants grown in Green Farms. This study was carried out to understand the production of Bacillus thuringiensis aizawai (Bta) using cost effective method to manage the pest biologically. Bta is being widely used in pest control programs. However, the production of this Bta is expensive due to the high cost of the production medium. In this study, an attempt has made to develop a cost-effective medium, based on a locally available raw materials namely coconut water which is available in plenty as waste product from coconut oil industry, coconut poonac, rice bran and coir dust. A standard conventional Luria Bertani medium was included in the assay for comparison. Media were assessed for the growth, sporulation and production of insecticidal properties of Bta. Coconut poonac extract and coconut water media produced higher spores than compare with conventional LB medium. Maximum spore count of 25.0×1013 spores/mL was obtained with a 72 h old culture of this bacterium grown in coconut poonac extract. Larvicidal activity (LC50) of 8 ×106 spores/mL (coconut poonac extract) against early second-instar larvae of S.litura were obtained. This is almost similar to that obtained with LB (9 × 106 spores/mL) medium. Hence, coconut based culture medium is economical for the production of Bta and compared favorably with the standard. Cost-effective analyses have revealed that production of Bta from test media is highly economical. The cost of production of Bta with local media was significantly reduced by 88-293 fold. The use of nonconventional sources has yielded a new knowledge in this area as the process development aspects of small scale production have been neglected as an area of research. These studies are very important from the point of media optimization for economic production of Bta based agents in pest management programs.

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Regional Distribution of Fusarium verticillioides in Mexico and Its Implications in Animal, Human Nutrition and Health

Abstract— This study was designed to investigate the presence of Fusarium species in Mexican corn. Maize samples from 26 States were analyzed. Corn kernels were cultivated following a sequence of cultivation methods until obtaining spores which were transferred to carnation leaf agar medium. Taxonomic identification of fungi was carried out by microscopic examination. To evaluate the in vitro production of fumonisin B1, it was experimentally induced in un-contaminated maize. The quantitative determination of fumonisin B1 in the maize samples was performed by thin layer chromatography. Quality control and sensitivity were established using a standard solution of commercial origin whose purity was corroborated by both thin-layer chromatography and high-performance liquid chromatography.

Thirty-eight strains were isolated; 29 corresponded to Fusarium verticillioides and 9 to Fusarium subglutinans. Strains of Fusarium verticillioides exhibited a variable behavior in fumonisin B1 production. 4 strains produced fumonisin B1 in a range of 3.12 to 6.57 ppm.

In conclusion, two species of Fusarium; Fusarium verticillioides and Fusarium subglutinans were found in maize from 26 States of Mexico, their distribution is regionalized. Strains found in five States produced fumonisin B1 in concentrations that can be considered clinically relevant.

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